Do you have a medical test like an endoscopy coming up? If so, your doctor may have given you a large packet of medicine to clean your intestines thoroughly (Bowel Preparation) beforehand. You may have been told to dilute it in a few liters of water and drink it. It's normal to feel a little scared and uncomfortable about this. Questions like "How can I drink so much liquid?" "Will I get an upset stomach?" may come to mind. But don't worry, today we'll talk about this medicine, how to use it, and everything you need to know.
What is this medicine? Simply put...
This is what we call a laxative . Medically speaking, this is a solution of `(Polyethylene Glycol; Electrolytes)`. Simply put, this is a laxative, that is, a medicine that cleanses the intestines. We call this `(Laxatives)`.
Here's how it works: When you drink this liquid, it goes into your intestines and draws water from your body into your intestines. What happens is that your stool becomes very loose and soft. Also, the pressure inside your intestines increases, stimulating the muscles in your intestines to push the stool down faster. After a few bowel movements, your intestines will be completely cleansed. Only then will the doctor be able to do something like an endoscopy clearly.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
This is very important. Before you take this medicine, you should definitely tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
| Do you have these conditions? | Description |
|---|---|
| Digestive system diseases | Any chronic condition of the intestines, stomach, or throat. |
| Stomach bloating or pain | If you have frequent bloating or stomach cramps. |
| Other medical conditions | Conditions such as dehydration, difficulty swallowing, heart disease, kidney disease, low sodium levels in the blood, or seizures. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to polyethylene glycol, other medications, food coloring, or preservatives. |
| Pregnancy or breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
How should I use this medicine?
It is very important to do this exactly as the doctor tells you.
1. Dilution: You should dilute the medicine with the exact amount of water specified on the label of the medicine packet you are given. Never mix it with other liquids (milk, fruit drinks) or flours (e.g. bread flour, cornflakes).
2. Taste: This may seem a bit strange to you. The best solution is to put the bottle in the fridge after dissolving the medicine and let it cool down a bit before drinking . It will be much easier to drink. Shake well before each use.
3. When to take it: Your doctor will tell you exactly when to start taking it. Start right away. Usually, the first time you need to go to the bathroom is within an hour of taking the medicine. After that, you will need to go to the bathroom more often, in a liquid form.
4. Diet: This is very important. You will need to follow a special diet before your test. Your doctor will advise you about this. Do not eat any solid food for 3-4 hours before you start taking the medicine.
If you accidentally take too much of this medicine, do not panic and immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you were unable to empty your stomach as your doctor advised, meaning you were unable to drink the entire liquid medicine, talk to your doctor about it.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
This is also something to pay attention to. Do not take any other medications by mouth for an hour before you start taking this medicine. Talk to your doctor about when you should take your other medications.
The following medications may interact with this stomach cleansing medicine.
| Drug category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Medicines for blood pressure and heart disease | Some medications are given to treat irregular heartbeats. |
| Medicine for kidney disease | Some medications affect kidney function. |
| Medicine for seizures | Medicines like Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital, Phenytoin. |
| Diuretics | Medicine given to remove water from the body. |
| Other laxatives | Other laxatives. |
| Painkillers (NSAIDS) | Medicines for pain and swelling, such as Ibuprofen or Naproxen. |
This list may not include all medications, so it's best to tell your doctor about all medications you take (including vitamins and herbal remedies) .
What are the expected side effects?
Like any medication, this one can have minor side effects. But don't worry. Let's take a look at what they are, and when you should talk to a doctor.
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Changes in heart rate | Fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, fainting, chest pain, difficulty breathing. |
| Kidney damage | Decreased urine output, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. |
| Seizures | A sudden seizure. |
| Severe stomach pain | Sudden or severe stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, fever, nausea, vomiting. |
| Usually nothing to worry about (but tell your doctor if it persists) | |
| Filling the stomach | Feeling of fullness in the stomach. |
| Nausea and vomiting | You may experience mild nausea or vomiting while taking the medicine. |
| Stomach ache | A slight stomach ache. |
| Rectal discomfort | Frequent urination causes inflammation and pain in the anus. |
How do you store and dispose of the medicine?
- Storage: After reconstituting the medicine, store it in the refrigerator to preserve its flavor and prevent spoilage. But do not store it in the freezer. Throw away any remaining amount after 48 hours of reconstitution.
- Disposal: When disposing of unused or expired medication, remove it from the bottle, mix it with something like cat litter, used coffee grounds, or soil, put it in a tightly sealed bag, and throw it in the trash . Do not flush it down the toilet.
Take-Home Message
- Follow your doctor's instructions exactly . Be careful about the amount of water you dilute the medicine in, the timing of taking it, and your diet.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have and all medications you are taking.
- It is normal to experience some stomach upset and mild nausea while taking the medicine. However, if you experience severe stomach pain, allergic symptoms, or changes in your heart rate, seek medical advice immediately.
- Since this medicine removes water from the body, drink the appropriate fluids (such as water) as directed by your doctor to prevent dehydration .
- This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with anyone else .
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